Yoga is—means to unite
or to yoke which ultimately aids in controlling the fluctuations of the mind.
Yoga is the path of Self-Realization;the discovery of the true self and the
union of that self with God. Ashtanga Yoga is a traditional science/system,
which leads one toward this ultimateunion, Maha-Samadhi.

Yoga has two meanings: a practice, and a state of consciousness.
As a practice it is the discipline of focusing the psyche upon one thing or
activity and as a state it is when the psyche intentionally becomes soutterly
absorbed upon the object of concentration that one's sense of self becomes
like a void (samaadhi) (Yoga Sutra III:3).
Sri K. Pattabhi Jois says that “the way of establishing the mind within
the Self (aatman) should be known as yoga.Ashtanga Yoga
This method of Yoga involves synchronizing the breath with progressive series
of postures—a process producing intense internal heat and a profuse,
purifying sweat that detoxifies muscles and organs. The result is improved
circulation, a light and strong body, and a calm mind. Shri K. Pattabhi Jois-Ashtanga Yoga literally means "eight-limbed yoga,"as outlined
by the sage Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. According to Patanjali, the path
of internal purification for revealing the Universal Self consists of the
following eight spiritual practices: